Handstand

1986, Milton Hebald. 6-1/2'h. 401 South Hope Street.
This bronze sculpture of a male athlete performing a handstand serves as an emblem of the organization by the outline of the letter "Y" and by expressing the purpose of the organization in promoting wellness through exercise. Commissioned by Morgan Adams, Jr. for the YMCA, it is based on a similar work Hebald executed in 1963 for the estate of C.V. Starr in New York. The earlier piece, also called Handstand, is distinguished from the work at the YMCA by its length (a foot shorter), its different facial features and its nudity.
Handstand was planned to be placed on a rock at the YMCA. However after visiting the YMCA, Hebald suggested elevating the work on a 10' tall pedestal to enhance its impact. The work is a gift of David Vidor Adams, John Adams, Peter Adams and Norman Adams.

Text provided courtesy of Michael Several, Los Angeles, December 1998.